Argentina will lift the World Cup on July 13, 2014 - and the country's third triumph in football’s biggest tournament will be the sweetest of them all because it will come in the back yard of South American rivals and hosts Brazil.

Predicting the winner of a major sporting contest is a precarious business for a journalist at the best of times. We’re trained to report the facts, not interpret tea leaves or stare into a crystal ball.

The guessing game for a World Cup, even an educated one, is even harder when it’s done before the teams are drawn into groups – but that’s the task I’ve been given.

Better, then, to face it than live in fear of it. I’ve pinned my colors to Argentina’s mast because they have the will, the skill and the local knowledge to beat their rivals.

Alejandro Sabella’s side were top scorers in South American qualifying, by a distance, and only Colombia conceded fewer goals.

Any statistician will tell you that one of the main reasons the best team doesn’t always win in football is because the sport is a relatively low-scoring one compared to, say, basketball or rugby.

Argentina can swing the odds in their favor thanks to impressive attacking firepower: Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain and Angel Di Maria are just some of the stars who can win a game on their own.

Now, I’ll admit the “we-can-score-more-goals-than-you” approach is doomed to failure in a season-long league campaign. But it is far better suited to a knockout tournament with a short group phase.

Ultimately, Argentina’s chances could hinge on four-time world player of the year Messi. Criticized in the past for failing to reproduce his club form at international level, he is finally delivering his best for Argentina in the same way he does for Barcelona, and scored 10 goals in 14 games during the qualifying competition for Brazil 2014.

As I write, the diminutive genius is injured and not for the first time this season. However, I view that enforced absence as an advantage, possibly ensuring he will arrive at the World Cup finals more refreshed than he otherwise might have been - his physical frailty may stop Barca coach Gerardo Martino from overplaying his key forward as the Spanish club chases trophies.

The case for Argentina isn’t watertight but the other reason I’m backing them is because of the even stronger doubts hanging over the other contenders.

Spain’s squad remains astonishingly talented but I feel the reigning world and double European champions will finally be undone by their lack of goals.

In 2010, they lifted the title after four consecutive 1-0 wins in the knockout rounds. La Roja looked uninspiring at Euro 2012 until their demolition of Italy in the final, and during world cup qualifying they managed just 14 goals in 8 games – only the 25th best scoring performance in the UEFA zone.

Germany, by contrast, were top scorers in the European section with 36 goals. They have a mouth-watering mix of young talent and experienced campaigners.

However, 16 other countries had better defensive records and the Mannschaft’s matches against Sweden showed a worrying frailty at the back.

Italy, world champions in 2006, can never be discounted but the lack of a genuine star player - Andrea Pirlo will be past his 35th birthday and questions remain about Mario Balotelli's temperament - could count against the losing Euro 2012 finalist.

And what about the host nation? Brazil has a huge opportunity to remind the world why we fell in love with its brand of football but the country’s passion for the game could count against the team.

When Brazil last hosted the tournament over 60 years ago, they were beaten to the title by Uruguay. The scrutiny will be a hundred times stronger this time.

Neymar is their key man but his move to Barcelona is yet to be deemed a resounding success. Brazil must also contend with the double-edged sword of not having to qualify for the tournament.

The hosts were always guaranteed a spot but this year's Confederation's Cup, which Luis Felipe Scolari's team won, is the only competitive football they have played in recent years.

When discussing the contenders who could upset my pick, Argentina, you’ll notice I’ve gone for former champions. After 19 World Cups, we’ve only ever seen eight different nations triumph.

The case could be made for a first-time winner. Belgium and the Netherlands have talented squads, while the top African nations – Cameroon, Nigeria, Ivory Coast and Ghana – all have the potential to reach the latter stages.

Colombia is, arguably, the pick of the candidates to win a World Cup for the first time, especially with a mean defense and a prolific forward like Radamel Falcao leading their attack. However, in my opinion, no country has a more compelling case than Argentina.

The 1978 and 1986 champions are poised to end a wait of more than a quarter of a century to lift football’s biggest prize.

soundoff(231 Responses)

Croatia will surprise Brasilia in the opening game – and win the game 2:1 !!!! One goal will score Eduardo Da Silva (Dudu), Croat, who started playing in Dinamo Zagreb, was seriously injured in Arsenal, where he played 3 years, currently plays in Ukraine (Sahtar)

Brazil ain't gonna win. They have a really good squad except for the striker. I know Fred played well and delivered in the confederations cup but I don't think he will be able to do the same in the world cup. Also, he and his young team mates lack experience. And we know what happens when an exceptionally talented squad lacks a striker with a killer instinct. Just look at Chelsea FC.

Sorry to disappoint you, but Colombia has no chances at all to win the tournament....

December 20, 2013 at 9:11 am |

Piero

you are crazy sorry brother, the only reason why Colombia and Ecuador have those stats is because of they're home fields, is like playing in a oven, so Colombia is better then Ecuador but they will not win it since there are playing in a even field, sorry....with that being said is between Brazil, Argentina, Germany, Spain. if i have to add one more it would probably be Netherlands as much as i would wish Portugal but i know it wont happen

January 2, 2014 at 8:48 pm |

John

I believe Colombia has the firepower to make a good run...not enough to win it but surely to leave a good impression...
Piero, Colombia had the best away record in the qualifiers, even better than Argentina. They won't win it but what I like is the offensive mindedness of its play. Be on the lookout for fun games to watch when Colombia plays.

The Netherlands. Even with 11 players Colombia (currently ranked 4th in world ranking) could not beat the team of Netherlands wich hand only 10 players during 70 minutes of the match. And the Dutch (with many young players) even had more dominance despite one man less and no large stars present.

I must say that Alex nows a little of the world famous sport (soccer) but really doesn´t know the main factor in soccer championship..Brazil is spending so much money to sponsor these games and our fans here in Brazil are fanatics to national soccer team, what ever happens in the finals, they will manage to do some maneuvering to make Brazil and an European team or even an African team to fight for the finals,and I would like to say something else, you forgot yr. National Team USA of which will get the quarter finals that is, depending the the teams teir going to challenged withen their section..As for Argentina, we saw them in the last world cup as all sport writer´s favorite didn´t get by quarter finals..I´ll put all my money on Brazil because this the year that any country on earth has won more then six thitles.. and from then on World Cup will have different meanings to go on beginning on the next 2018 Russia and 2022 Quatar....
Last but not least Brasil 2 X 0 Germany once again... with gols from Neymar and Robinho..

Leave allah out of this, it has nothing to do with football. Oh you need to ask god if he is willing? What a crock! Why hasnt allah given a muslim nation glory yet? Could it be youre simply not good enough and it has nothing to do with your imaginary master...

I gotta admit I'm a long time supporter of Argentina. In the 90s and 2000s, I've always felt that they're the team who came to each world cup fearing nobody, and feared by the other contenders. And this time, they seem to be peaking in time for next year's world cup. Vamos vamos Argentina! My dream final would be Argentina vs Spain (my next favourite team). =)

I gotta admit that I'm a long time supporter of Argentina. In the 90s and 2000s, (regardless of how their fortunes turned out in the end) I've always felt that they're the team who came to each world cup genuinely fearing nobody, and genuinely feared by the other contenders. No team wanted to be drawn against tem. This time, I'm excited to think that they appear to be peaking just in time for next year's world cup. Vamos Vamos Argentina! (My dream final would be Argentina vs Spain – another team that I admire next to Argentina.)

belgium are the dark horses along with Columbia.
Both Argentina, brazil have stars but cannot click as a team.By the way,without contribution from Petro pinto, this analysis lacks depth and objectivity.
The last 4 will be belgium, columbia, Brazil and germany

imy friend shut up! u must be joking and day dreaming simultaneously. combine eusebio, figo n ronaldo , portugal can still not triumph the MIGHTY GHANA. it is a high spirited team not made of stars but attitude.

Spain s the only team ever to win two european champioships and a wold championship in a row. Brasil and Argentina have have several greatt teams that were the best in the world in their time , but if the Spanish national team would manage to win his second world champion would be without doubt the best team ever..No team has ever reached those achievements. I think that Brasil will win though. Championship is in Brasil and apart from the great team they have and the advantage of playing at home,,for any European team is very difficult to play with such high humidity and heat.

Italian Coach Cesare Prandelli reminds me the World Cup winner Enzo Bearzot 1982, therefore I have a strong feeling that Italy will win 5th World Cup....

May 1, 2014 at 6:33 pm |

MathewX

Spain has a pretty good team but to me they lack clarity at least in my opinion. Personally I want Argentina to win but I'm not putting all my chips on it. Messi ads a very good addition to Argentina but he is to important. In my opinion Argenitina wouldn't be as close to wining the cup without him. There are also other good teams like Brazil and Germany.

June 23, 2014 at 1:32 pm |

Antero Biaggio

The best team of all times is Brazil....Thats why Brazil has 5 World Cups and Spain has only one....

It is really very difficult to predict the winner of World Cup, but Argentina will be favourites as they have fantastic attackers like Messi, Aguero, Higuain, Di Maria and others, yet their defence is not as strong as their offence; the main thing in their favour is Messi, who on his own can destroy any opposition! So, I think Argentina shall win the World Cup 2014 in the backyard of their main rivals Brazil!
Viva Argentina!!!

Unbelievable not to have mentioned Uruguay! Are you kidding me?! Suarez, Cavani, Forlan, Caceres, El Cebolla and the list goes on... I am not saying that they will win, the field is tough, but they deserve mention. Suarez will be unstoppable! Watch out for La Celeste!

It's nice to see no one is even mentioning Italy as a possible winner....I am not saying they will win, but I would NEVER count them out. They are the ONLY team that can ruin every above mentioned teams day!

Trust me, no one likes facing italy. In every world cup, most people discount italy.
In my honest opinion, Italy should be the most feared team. They are very unpredictable, play with their heart, and have a pride in their hard work and playing starting with signing their national anthem.
Will Italy win? I dont have a crystal ball. But they have just as much of a chance as all the favorites.

My dream pick is to have Colombia sneak into the final, nobody has mentioned Chile and their fast attack. Like Uruguay they know the Conmebol teams and they have proven to be a dangerous fast attacking team.
The Cinderella teams are Colombia and Chile , time for a new winner from Latin America!,!!!!!

Impossible to predict . While argentina is one of the favourites , their chances will totally depend on how healthy messi is and honestly I would not consider Argentina the top 3 favourites for lots of reasons . Their defence and midfield is not that good , so they lack balance which was the reason for their exit in the last world cup .

2-Germany : The passionate south american football will edge German football , so no to Germany
3-Spain : The perfect defence , perfect midfield , but no real attackers . May be Costa can make the difference if they let him play and please do not talk to me about pedro , negrano , navas or fabrigas . They are not real attackers .
4-Brasil : Not a chance , no magic , no flare , no passion , no style . Good team over all , but just good and that is not good enough . Neymar is not a miracle maker like messi , so I do not think he will have a real impact .
5-Ghana is my favourite team to watch (i'm not black 🙂 ) . I see Ghana upsetting some major powers , but they will not win the world cup .
Colombia : they are just crazy and fun to watch , but they will easily be defeated by Eropean style of play .
Uroguay : Very good team in the forward only .

Personally I would go with spain . A combination of Barca and RM and attletico is deadly and will be very hard to contain .

I dont see spain going through to the final, Im not trying to predict anything. I just don't see it. Their style of play is being read by many. If they face italy, germany, brazil they will most likely lose the game.

Federation means nothing...Spain was eliminated by USA in the previous Federation Cup
Unfortunately the Spanish Coach try new things when playing Federation..friendly matches... Spain lost in a row with Portugal. Argentina and some other team by three or four goals..after wining the World championship...

February 26, 2014 at 11:33 pm |

Anders

That means absolutely nothing, don't you ever had a bad day???, Spain team are humans too... In my opinion they will win again.

I can only see the coronation of the imperious,brilliant,peerless,imperial,majestic KING LIONEL MESSI at Brasil 2014.The dimunitive Pocket Rocket from Rosario is coming to Brazil 2014 to conquer and reign!.It is as simple as that.If Argentina wont make it to the podium then i strongly fancy the National Mannschaaft.Germany ,Deutschland .It is a team clad in ADIDAS regalia that is going to triumph at Brasil 2014.

spot on, mr. thomas. the stage looks to be set for argentina (& messi) to win a world cup in brazil, of all places. just like the netherlands winning euro '88 in germany. this world cup is for south americans only (except brazil). so, get lost, spain.
i'm going for an italy-argentina final, with argentina winning 2-1!

Stop dreaming....Brazil is the best team of the world today...Italy was not a problem in the Federations Cup, they will not be a problem in the World Cup...And Argentina cant win Brazil at their home soil....

Whether we regress to the 2010 World Cup, Brazil had a tougher squad than now, but Brazil were defeated in the quarterfinals. Remember? The mighty Netherlands squad and Germany will get to the 2014 semifinals and one of these splendid squads will win the 2014 World Cup! Home soil might not guarantee Brazil to triumph in 2014. Let's not dream about Argentina winning the Cup, for Netherlands, Germany, Portugal, and even Serbia will not allow this to happen! Finally, the two "Group of Death" will be quite a challenge in the 2014 quarter-finals for the strong squads, such as France, Italy, and Uruguay who are more impetuous than Brazil and Argentina!

Everybody wrote off Uruguay for any tournaments no matter what. For example, many journalists predicted Argentina to win 2011 Copa America and Uruguay would be kicked off in 2nd stage and looks what happened. Uruguay did very well in this year's Cup when everybody thought they would not make it to the knockoff stage. Uruguay won the fourth best place at World Cup 2010, everybody just think its a fluke. Let me tell you something, when Uruguay win World Cup 2014 and that would be a sweet revenge on them. May Luis Suarez guide Celeste all the way with gang of Cebolla, Cavani, Forlan, newcomer Stuani, and more! By the way, I think Stuani will end up in EPL right after World Cup 2014.

why would anyone be thinking of Argentina winning the world
cup tournament holding in Brazil-2014 now?
The host nation–Brazil, have very good team, then Holland, Germany and Belgium.
The strongest are: Argentina, Brazil, Belgium, Germany and Holland. I tip Germany.

THE AFRICA CHAMPION (NIGERIA) are the rightful owner of the WORLD CUP,,we are the first Africa to win a FIFA tournament,,the first and only Africa to have highest (5th) and second (9th) highest fifa ranking in Africa,,and We are the the first Africa team to conquer the world in football (olympic gold medal) and we will be the first Africa to lift the world cup and that will be brazil 2014

One thing I can say is this will be a great world cup in a great setting. Brazil has some serious home field advantage. I see many predicting Argentina, but I think there could always be surprises. I dont really get the comment about South American Passion vs. Germany? Lets see: Italy and Germany have won multiple world cup as have Brazil has and Argentina
~Argentina has wonderful strikers but are lacking in midfield and defense.
~Germany has a problem with their defense as well and still looking for something resembling solid(excluding Lahm), however they have many midfielders/fwds that wont be easily contained (possibly the most).
~Brazil isnt exactly the best defense team either and Neymar (while incredibly skilled) has temperament problems.
~Belgium is quite good albeit too young and inexperienced in my opinion.
~ Holland still a team with some stars (Robben playing great as well as Van Persie) .
~Spain is still a force to be reckoned with. Very talented and well coached...can never count them out. I think people have learned their style a bit and they can now be beaten with hard work and focus.
~Portugal=CR7 playing his best football. But is CR7 is solved they can be beat. Defense also suspect
~Uruguay has some good players as well but I dont think overall team strong enough.
~Never ever count out Azzuri. They always come to play in the cup

To keep in mind is focus is what is important...anything can happen on anyday. The most focused and consistent team will win. Not sure how the brackets play out (I tried espns), but I think overall team with best focus, and discipline, combined with experience will lead to cup. Final 8: Colombia, Brazil/ Netherlands, Uruguay/ Argentina, Portugal/ Germany, France. Final 4 : Brazil,Germany/, Netherlands,Argentina, Cup: Germany barely gets past Brazil in upset vs. Argentina. Final: Germany 3-Argentina 2

Brazil will win, because, like Maradona once said, "Brazil is always Brazil". Brazilian have a great team and they also will play at home. Germany is another strong possibility. Forget about Spain, Argentina or whoever. Its good for the Brazilians that everybody only talks about Neymar.... When it is too late, the other teams will find out that Brazil has many good players.

What a ridiculous prediction, Lionel Messi doesn't produce 50% of what he does in Barcelona due to the fact that Xavi and Iniesta are not feeding him precision perfect passes for him just to put away. Honestly aside from the hosts, who have a very strong squad with the home crowd support, Germany is a very possible contender due to their plethora of World Class players and rigid, systematic tactical discipline, which is really unmatched it today's game. Spain is just too old and their style has been studied and figured out, apply high pressure, don't let xavi and iniesta dictate the tempo of play. Concluding, it really up for grabs, but look for young Brazilian players to shine with home crowd support ( Such s confederations cup). I could go on and on.....

I can only say the main contenders would be Argentina, Brazil and Germany. Forget England, forget Belgium forget Uruguay and definitely forget Spain. I'll just quickly start with my personal team….

England: In England there’s too much expectation. The fans ALWAYS go into the World Cup expecting to win; they honestly shouldn’t, but they do. It is always locally perceived that England players are the best, the England team is the best, the BPL is the best – until it proves not to be, and once again it’s a dramatic flop. For some players it weighs too heavily, for others it gives them inflated opinions of their standing, it’s a recipe for disaster that compromises performance. I wish them the best as they are my team and have been for years but I'm a realist. I'm just going to save the expectations and fill my pint glass and watch some brilliant football.

Argentina: I personally believe they are going to blow out the competition or at least worst case scenario second place to Germany or Brazil. Seriously, look at their squad, their players – their form! The level of competition they are in with their teams! It's mind boggling! Just some names for your mind to difficultly render: Higuain, Agüero, Lavezzi, Zabaleta, Mascherano, Lamela, Alvarez, and – and – and what's that little guys name that destroys every living opponent that faces him? Oh on top of his game, back from injury freaking Messi – Enough said…

Brazil: The hosting country – the country where they talk football, play football, eat football and their religion is football. This might not be the strongest Brazilian team you have ever seen. But they are passionate, young, retardedly talented and definitely ambitious, especially that they are at home! For starters they have Neymar, he has a lot to show and he will. Followed by Robinho, Hulk, Willian, Paulinho, Oscar, Ramires, David Luiz, Alves, Marcelo, KAKA!, Pato, Costa and many more hidden talents. As I mentioned earlier its between Germany, Argentina and Brazil with Spain settling for forth.

Germany: Just like their perfectly assembled vehicles and very precise and detailed way of life- this team is pure, tactical and powerful. They are basically Borussia Dortmund joint forces with Bayern Munich combined together to play in the World Cup, lol made myself laugh. I believe they will end up in the top 4 for sure, I'd specifically say 2rd. But honestly speak, I wouldn’t be surprised if they got unlucky faced Argentina and get bumped to 3rd beating Spain. Look at their team ffs: Müller, Götze, Reus, Schürrle, Kroos, Mertesacker, Klose, Gómez, Schweinsteiger, Podolski, Özil and of course Neuer. Booom.

Spain: No.. Their era is over. For now at least, till they get their *** together. I'll say they get knocked out very early. But hey that is just me, and the I believe that they have too many cooks in the kitchen with mind blowing egos. I could be wrong, but La Liga, and BPL is not really being dominated by the Spanish players… Sant, Villa and Casillas might be the only three that I believe will personally put in their best if given the chance too, of course.

Regardless of my prediction, I think this might be the best World Cup of my Life time yet! (expect that sadness in me that King Zlatan will not be there 😥 )

In my humble opinion, the prediction must be Germany. If you followed Bayern Munich's ridiculous winning streak and saw the excellent condition of German football, I highly doubt, Argentina could be favored over Germany. In 2014, all 4 German Teams reached the play-offs of the UEFA Champions-League. Maybe the Nationalmannschaft is lacking a solid defense so far, but they will train that. Just have a look at the possible starting 11. Neuer – Lahm – Hummels – Boateng – Höwedes – Schweinsteiger – Kroos – Reus – Özil – Müller – Götze. Not to mention players like Schurrle, Schmelser, Ter Stegen, Draxler, Khedira, Bender and many more. Nevertheless, predicting is hard since you never know the players' condition during the tournament...

I think Germany will win this time.
Remember the period in which Real Madrid and Barcelona dominated international club-football. This was the time when the spanish team was at its highest level. Now take a look at what German clubs have shown the last years. Bayern Munich is Nr. 1, Borussia Dortmund is also one of the best clubs right now. Most of the players in German national team are from Bayern Munich or Borussia Dortmund. Those players are used to play together. Look at other national teams. Most of the players are spread all around the world. Too many individual players. What made spain rise in world football, will now help Germany to win.

My pick would have been Germany to win the World Cup but considering the fact that it will be held in Brazil and European teams have difficulty winning in South America, it will be Argentina lifting the world cup, as far as Brazil goes they are over rated.

seven times the world cup has been held in the americas avd seven times a south american team has won it, the same as 9 times out of ten times it has been held in europe, a european team has won it , i noticed that pattern as far back as 1982, im surprised more people not noticing that, the bookies certainly have.

It have to be Brazil, not because of home-ground advantage only but if any teams who wants to beat them and be a champion, they must be really extraordinary or else it would be difficult. Traditional teams from Germany, Spain, Argentina would be the other favourites.Outsiders would be The Netherlands, Portugal ( if C. Ronaldo can inspire) Uruguay, Chile , France and maybe Italy. Unfortunately I'm not sure about England with the current squad, maybe up to the quarter-finals if they get lucky.

Any team, but Argentina! Not in our back yard! We´ll see! Brasil has been always the best. Just look at the titles. We are 5 times champion of the world cup! No others teams are even closer. Whith that being said, I rest my case! BRASIL will be the winner!

If Nigeria ever beats Argentina at the group stage, they will lift the trophy by beating Brazil at the final. But if Nigeria drew Argentina, they will only be the first African country to reach the Semis but they won't win it. So their game starts with Argentina. Bon chance a tous!

For everyone saying portugal is easy remember that they always pass the group stage withe the exception of 2002 and 86.... In the last 2 wc they were eliminated by an offside goal against spain (wc 2010 winners) and in euro 2012 reached semi finals to be again eliminated by spain in penalty shot out (spain beated italy in the final 4-0) and italy eliminated germany in the semi final... Just dont base favorites in qualifications or ranks, the final stage is a complete different story

Unfortunately, the real 2014 World Cup looser will be the Brazilian citizens, regardless if the Brazilian Soccer Team wins or not. With huge amounts of money deviated by the authorities (read here the Labor Party and its President Dilma Russef and Lula) that will endorse another 4 years of robbery if Brazil wins the World Cup. If that happens, ordinary people will only celebrate instead of going out to the streets to protest about the money deviated and all the promises made by Mr. Lula to increase Brazilian infrastructure as a result of World Cup benefits.
Many protests are being planned to happen in front of the stadiums done by conscious citizens that do not agree with Brazil hosting this World Cup. The Labor Party is truly concerned that these protests will show the true landscape of the reality (ie corruption) to the world and they are managing to put out the fire.
As a Brazilian I feel myself extremely embarrassed to say that this World Cup in Brazil is a tremendous fake and may represent true danger for foreigners coming to see the games. In 2014 there will be elections for President in Brazil so everything goes to reelect the Labor Party (and Dilma), so the World Cup is their best propaganda. Political groups (against Labor Party) and people that do not accept Brazil hosting this World Cup (due to corruption) will go out on the streets during the games and conflicts will happen with Police and Army, scaring the foreigners and showing them the true picture of this great fake!
My advice: save your money (cause everything was already priced to the top because of the World Cup event), save your family (that will be a tremendous great time for robbers on the streets plenty of foreigners) and help the Brazilian people that are embarrassed with all the disgrace that the Labor Party brought to our country since last 12 years, buying votes from poor people in exchange of money. Help Brazil not coming here or bringing your money. World football deserves a hostess with dignity. I am sorry to say that.

England actually look like a lost cause for this world cup, specially with the fact that they do not have Theo Walcott makes it even more difficult. England do have lots of amazing young talents and experienced players such as Gerrard, Lampard and Rooney but I think what they lack most is the team chemistry. The players are not as acquainted with each other as winning a world cup would demand. I will personally be amazed if England actually makes as far as the knock out stages with teams such as Uruguay and Italy in their group. Good luck though and hopefully I will be amazed this summer.

I am a footbal fan and people will understand what i am trying to put in lines. If people like to watch worldcup and football as well they will wisely need to watch TOTAL FOOTBALL. There is only one team that misses to complete the pot of 8 nations winning worldcup. Is the Netherlands, they play well and nicely many people know that and in 2010 they have been cheated, i do not consider spain a winner due to the fact referee influenced a lot on the game, fouls from spain he did not call and made the dutch players to become nervous it was intentionally even the goal from spain outside the issue of being offside goal, there was a fault commited by puyol on Getro williams that could send him out of the game, by the way football business i hope the bets do not come again, this 2014 is for Rafael Vandervart, Blind, Robeben, Vlaar, Sneidjer, Huntelar, Robin Van Pierse, this is a sample of mega team when you recouver AC MILLAN old times made by Ricjchard, Gullit and Van Basten so @ 2014 just wait to watch the Dutch nocking of Spain in the first game amazing total footbal.

There is one country to be careful, very good at springing surprises. Nigeria .............for who cares to hear.
Just like I predicted last World Cup, the country that will pick up the cup will be for the first time. This is the season for the unknown.
Victor.

2014 in Brazil will be like the 1998 in France...the rulling party in Brazil will be running for re-election, if Brazil looses the PT will loose power. Lula and his gang had all this planned with FIFA, Blatter will get a ton on money and at the end the entire tournament will, once again, be obviously fixed...you need to be blind not to see it.
The one thing that may go against the PT & FIFA plans is the people protests tha tmay take place right before and during the competition, the international media will have a feast!
I cannot wait to see it...

This report here shows the fact that it is a biased story coming from an Argentinian fan who is trying to show why Argentina can win the World Cup. The story shows the writer's plain thought and I believe there is not enough evidence to show why Argentina will win this world cup. If a neutral reader who does not really know much about football (soccer) comes and reads the story, he/she will most likely start asking several questions. He/She will even know that it is a bias post when he/she sees why Brazil losing the competition when played in their soil lost against Uruguay could be tied towards Brazil having less chance of winning the World Cup that is going to be hosted in Brazil. When I saw the title I pretty much ran towards this report to see what the writer had in store because it was a title to which any football (soccer) fan would love to read in the brink of the World Cup 2014. This report rather lacked any sorts of diversity in opinions because of the fact that all the info was coming out of one person who was saying why his team (team he supports) should win the World Cup.

Starting out with the topic you started with does lead many people to come and read what is in store. I mean, seriously who would be that football (soccer) fan who would not like to read about which team could win the world cup. The fact that you used lionel Messi's picture to be the highlight of the article shows the fact that you are betting on Argentina to win the world cup. I think this is just too much of a clue for people to realize that you are going to talk about Argentina alone and some might just leave the post without actually reading the blog/article. Also I think that this article is biased because of the fact that you are ignoring some of the strengths of other big teams and you are also not highlighting some of the poor sides of Argentina. The fact that such fast attackers make this team does not just mean that they actually score goals. We have seen from some of the friendlies games such as ones against Romania and even the one against Saudi Arabia that Argentina can be stopped. And how can you just rule Brazil out just because they lost a world cup in their home against Uruguay basically decades ago? This just shows that this blog lacks any diverse discussions and just has reports relating to why you think Argentina should win this world cup.

I have to say this though. I believe that this is going to be Argentina's year. One of the reasons I could give is the fact that no European teams have ever won the world cup in South America. Because of the fact that it is in South America this year could just mean that a South American team should win it. But it is certainly difficult to rule any of the other teams from Europe. Spain looks like a team that could actually have 2 very good teams made from the amount of great players they possess. The introduction of Diego Costa as a main striker does mean Spain has been given a better attack. But the way Spain play could really hamper them. They try to play like FC Barcelona but cannot do that. We do know that Spain's style is keeping the ball and scoring at the very right time but they do not have the right players to play the intricate passing and poaching football like Barcelona does. Their reliance on surviving games by defending a lead by a goal or two could actually cost them. I do not think that Brazil actually has enough experience in the team to actually lead them to glory in the world cup. They do have amazing players like Neymar, Oscar and Thiago Silva but I think that these young players (oscar and Neymar) will choke to the big occasion with the home crowds demanding more from these players. In this case home advantage could actually turn into a big disadvantage. Germany could be a big threat with all the players they have in their box but I do not think that their defense line is as stable as some other teams and their reliance with midfielders scoring could have slight effect on them. They will need a quality striker which Thomas Muller provides but you never know when players start to flop. The only other team that has a shot at winning the World Cup will be Argentina. Argentina's back line gets criticized most of the time but I believe that they are not so bad. Mascherano is really good at the CDM role and Argentina do have the flexibility to use Lionel Messi as a creative Midfielder if needed, otherwise Erik lamela could stand up to the occasion. DiMaria is in form and Lavezzi is not doing so bad either and they have classic strikers in the names of Sergio Aguero, Higuain and Messi whenever needed. The fact that Argentina is drawn in easiest possible group could mean that their main players could have more rest than any others getting into the knock out phases of the tournament.

Sorry to say as a soccer fan, this cup will be tainted with bad referees, Brazil has to win to save the country so calls will not be mad against the host country. I’m not saying Brazil isn't good enough to win but i think they will get a lot of help from refs. Just a fan of the wonderful game.

YOU PEOPLE NEED TO OPEN YOUR EYES. I WONDER WHY YOU DONT SEE ITALY WINING THE WORLD CUP. THE CUP IS FOR THE AZZURRI. NO OTHER TEAM HAS THE BEST QUALITY OF PLAYERS THAN ITALY. THEY HAVE AVERY STRONG SQUAD COMBINED OF QUALITY EXPERIENCED PLAYERS LIKE ANDREA PIRLO, GIANLUIGI BUFFON AND DANIELE DE ROSSI AS WELL AS YOUNG AND TALENTED SUPER STARS LIKE MARIO BALOTELI, AND MARCO VERRATTI. NO OTHER TEAM CAN MATCH THE ARRAY OF PLAYERS THAT THE ITALIANS ARE GOING LINE UP IN BRAZIL. THATS WHY THE AZZURRI WILL BE GOING TO COLLECT THERE PROPERTY FROM BRAZIL.

Hmmm lets see... I dont think that Ghana or Colombia will not get far. I wish that final match will be Italy (lucky magic XD,we play with hearth) and Germany (THEY HQVE A BIT OF A CANTWINCOUNTERITALY COMPLEX) I like Brazil but where is the Rodaldinho magic :).One man team like Colombia or Portugal ... meh I think ITALIA will win (sry for my errors but im ITALIAN)

You talk about Germany,Argentina this world cup is for the African nations .Cameroon left the German players running after them during their friendly game although they ended on a draw Game Cameroon gave Germany a hard time and i think they would show Mexico and Croatia what lions can really do Alley les lion .

For all the people still calling football 'soccer' get it straight please. It is football and not soccer. That game which you call football is more played by hand than feet. So call that stupid game soccer or whatever.

Can't we see how Brazil is playing. When most of the teams are now playing attacking football,
Brazil thinks they can win a game by playing defensive. Great!!!

The problem with Brazil is not with the players alone. Are there no one to coach Brazil other than Scolari, or of Dunga's type??? They are completely ruining Brazil's flair and playing style. They are bent on making Brazil a defensive side......

Look what a team they have selected in the first place. I believe Ronaldinho/Kaka/Robinho would have been far better off in-spite of their age compared to Fred/Hulk/Joe in whatever form. Fred is a player who thinks he will score only when he gets a ball in front of the box when even the goalkeeper also is not there. What about Oscar. He may be good after 4 years but look at him now, he cant even a grip a ball properly and falters most of the time. And what can we say about Paulinho/Gustavo. They are in the team because Scolari is the boss. Scolari thinks since he has given the 2002 World Cup whatever he does has to be right.

I may sound harsh, but Scolari does not seem to have any football sense left in him at this age.

I am sure it will be extremely difficult for Brazil if not impossible to win this world cup. But one thing Brazil should start looking immediately. They should start dumping out this old aged worn out coaches first and start bringing some new attacking minded coaches to lead their team. I am sure and I believe all will agree that Brazil has a lot of them.

After that with whatever available talent Brazil has (less or more it will not matter) they will be fun to watch and can start winning cups too!!

For me I think the final three are going to be: Brazil, Argentina, and Germany.
Yes some may agree that Ghana got off to a really good start but in my opinion there not gonna make it. Spain is a good team but to me there just not qualified to win. Ok ik they won one cup but I highly doubt they will do it again. Mexico and Iran's teams are like little eddies to teams I listed up top. Nether one of them have the power to win the cup. The fact is Brazil has a very good team with lots of willpower and a very good squad. I feel sad saying this because I am an all American boy and I love and support America but America has a very slim chance being in the finals. Argentina has a great offense and striking squad though I would suggest upping there defense. Germany (although I dislike Germany) Is the most fit squad to win the world cup. I hate saying this because honestly I don't want them to win the world cup AGAIN. Personally I would like either Brazil or Argentina to win.

My passion for soccer came at a very young age, thanks to my father who played professional soccer in the 60's. All the teams entering this world cup or the past world cups for that matter all have great players/top players, but the truth be told. Brazilians are the most passionate country in the world when it comes to soccer and their players present and past. Does Brazil stand a chance to win once again ... without a doubt!

Colombia will win over Argentina in OT 2:1,
Amazing statistics and their surprise like attack is phenomenal for the kill!
Colombia moves the ball faster then any country I have seen so far. One minute you're in their defensive zone and in a blink of the eye their are at your goal scoring. I have not seen Brazil do the same and Argentina has shown a little of this tactic but their master of the short game ball movement.

If Germany scores in the first half then Argentina will be grilled. Otherwise I bet on a penality shootout (IMO this is Argentina's only chance to win the WC!. Messi could score a lucky goal, but hey, he'll rather enjoy the special escort service)

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About Alex Thomas

Alex Thomas is a sports correspondent and anchor with CNN International, working out of the company’s London office. As well as reporting from the 2009 and 2010 Champions League finals, in Rome and Madrid, Alex has been CNN’s man on the ground at the Wimbledon and French Open tennis Championships, Vancouver Winter Olympics and the football World Cup in South Africa. He has also interviewed world sports celebrities like Roger Federer, Usain Bolt, Padraig Harrington, Arsene Wenger, Ji-Sung Park, Michael Ballack and Serena Williams.